($32): Dry Creek Vineyard, still owned by the Stare family, is approaching their half-century mark of making wine in Dry Creek Valley.  Though I’ve always been a fan of their balanced wines, I think they are just getting better and better.  This Merlot dominant (roughly two-thirds) Bordeaux blend is broad and lush, yet not overdone despite the 14.5 percent stated alcohol.  A lovely savory, what I call “not just fruit,” component offsets and balances the ripe, almost sweet, character.  Though immediately appealing, as it sits in the glass complexity emerges, enhancing its appeal.  Here is a well-priced wine to open the next time you’re grilling a steak.
92 Michael Apstein Feb 23, 2021